Self Care & Self Massage during COVID-19

by | Mar 29, 2020 | COVID-19, Massage

Benefits of Self care and Self Massage during the Covid-19 Pandemic

The current COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of us, many of us are facing a new reality that immediately affects our employment, education, and businesses. Within the last week we have started to settle into staying at home and social distancing. Some of us become overwhelmed with anxiety of what is going to happen next. 

Fear, anger and dread are being felt by all as our families begin to understand the monumental cost to help save our nation from the spread of the virus.   Now is the time to practice self-care, reduce stress, rejuvenate your mind, and check in with yourself. 

Life is busy, self-care takes time and often takes a backseat to other daily demands. But, if you don’t prioritize your health, who will?

So, a lot is coming at us, and very quickly. All this uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) is fueling fear and intense energy. It can all feel overwhelming…

 

Nevertheless, here are some steps you can take to recenter yourself and to help keep perspective. I spent time this week indulging in self care, here are a few things I did.

 

1. Self foot reflexology is a perfect way to promote deep sleep. 

Follow these simple steps:

  • Relax the feet, one at a time, with simple relaxation techniques. Consider pressing and squeezing, lightly slapping or gently kneading—whatever feels good.
  • On the bottom of each foot, “walk” your thumb up from the base of the heel to each toe (imagine your thumb is a caterpillar inching its way up your foot), then press these reflex points with the outer edge of your thumb or tip of your forefinger:
  • Apply the relaxation techniques again, and finish with another thumb press on the solar plexus point on both feet.
  • End with “breeze strokes.” Lightly run your fingertips down the tops, bottoms, and sides of each foot in a feathery motion, barely touching the skin. Repeat this several times. It is very soothing to the nerves.
  • Since reflexology transports you into a state of deep relaxation where you are open to suggestions, this is a good time for a pre-sleep affirmation such as: “I now enter a place of deep and restful sleep.” Also count your blessings and appreciate all of the good times in your day. Envision how you would like your next day to be.
  • You can also share this treat with your significant other or a child.
  • Here is a map of the feet to help you administer self reflexology

2. Face Mask and playing games with the kids

  • Have a Spa and game night with the family
  • Enjoy an invigorating homemade face mask
    • Here is a recipe I found and loved:
      • Sweet Potato Facial Mask
        • 1/2 peeled, boiled sweet potato, cut into chunks
        • 1 Tbsp honey
        • 1 tsp ginger powder
        • 1 Tbsp milk, cream, half & half, rice milk, coconut milk, or almond milk (unsweetened)
        • Boil your sweet potato until it falls apart easily when you stick a fork in it (about 15-20 minutes). Strain out the water (reserve some sweet potato water, if you’d like, and rinse your face with it once a day for the next 3 days – bonus!). Place all ingredients into a food processor or blender and let it run until the mask is very smooth. This mask has an exceptional texture – PERFECT for a food-on-your-face mask that doesn’t fall off, drip, or otherwise make a mess.
        • Slather the mask onto a freshly washed face. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse well, scrubbing lightly with a washcloth.
        • Finish by smoothing on a VERY light layer of olive oil over your face – just makes the entire experience heavenly!

 

3. Cook a special dinner as a family. We made shrimp Alfredo with spaghetti, salad, and garlic bread and for dessert homemade applesauce.

4. Take a nap and read a book. It’s not very often I am able to snag a nap in the middle of my day. It felt very refreshing.

5. Yoga and meditation. Such a calming and peaceful way to help relieve stress and find inner peace.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, eat healthy and try to stay away from processed food. Be mindful, and listen to your body it will tell you what it needs.

 

Elizabeth Brunner

Massage and Cupping Therapist

 

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